Dyspraxia/ DCD

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD)/Dyspraxia is a complex neurological condition characterized by an impairment or immaturity of the organisation of movement, and of the way the brain processes information, which results in messages not being properly or fully transmitted. DCD affects the planning of what to do and how to do it. It is associated with problems of perception, language and thought. Adults with moderate to severe DCD have difficulty managing many areas of their daily lives. Poor fine motor skills cause difficulty with handwriting, personal care (including dental care), cooking, housework, driving, DIY, and shopping. Weak gross motor skills affect their balance, posture and ability to play competitive sports. Organisation of themselves, their belongings and their time is also difficult for adults with DCD. Adults with DCD may have difficulties with socialising, maintaining friendships, literacy, Numeracy, academic studies, memory and concentration.

The adult with DCD may have difficulties in some or many of the following areas:

• Poor fine motor skills

• Weak gross motor skills

• Joint laxity

• Poor posture

• Difficulty organising their thoughts on to paper

• Poor time management

• Money management

• Difficulty organising themselves, their belongings (and their children)

• Weak short-term auditory memory

• Poor concentration

• Visual perceptual problems

• Difficulty understanding the social use of language

• Poor social skills

• Low self-esteem

• Lack confidence